Requesting Release

I would think the first logical step would be a phone call by the player to the head coach explaining why he wanted a release. If you start to get into certified mail territory it could create repercussions. 

Well the decision has been made.  That's why I am asking about the formality of it because this is a legal process.

bothsportsdad,

I agree with BOF that it starts with a phone call to the coach.  That should then be followed by an e-mail to the Compliance Coordinator at the school with a copy to the AD and the coach.  If this is a Div. I school, they must provide the player with a response within 7 business days or the player's request is granted by default.  If the school denies the request, they must make a hearing opportunity available to the player.

If you want to discuss the process in detail, contact me directly as I've consulted with over a thousand athletes and/or parents about the process, and have been through it as a parent myself.

What level?

The first thing should always be a call to the coach. In D3 there is a self release form that can be filled out. I am not sure of the process at NAIA, D1, or D2.

BLD is correct about the D3 self-release process, but it can only be used when going from one D3 to another D3.

the level is D2

D2 doesn't have the 7 business day requirement, so if the coach or AD stall, the player may need to insist "either grant me the release, or deny it so I can move on to the appeal stage of the process."

Thanks Rick, I did miss that important detail. +1